Second Graders Explore World of Nonfiction
Dows Lane Elementary School second graders have been diving into nonfiction reading with enthusiasm, exploring the “Who Would Win?” series in Katherine Tripeau’s class. Each book in this series compares two animals – evaluating traits like size, strength and speed – to determine which animal would win in a competition.
“These books help children learn about animals while introducing them to more complex nonfiction texts,” Tripeau said. “The students have been eagerly pursuing knowledge through these engaging texts and sharing fascinating facts with confidence and joy.”
Following their reading, the students participated in a lively discussion, sharing interesting facts with their peers. From ostrich eggs and ant queens to dinosaur skulls and how a bull shark’s body compares to the design of a space shuttle, their discoveries sparked curiosity.
The students emerged as courageous learners as many of them chose to focus on challenging texts, embracing opportunities to grow. The activity aligned seamlessly with the district’s Portrait of a Graduate, which emphasizes cultivating courageous learners, effective communicators, engaged citizens and self-aware individuals.



